What is a digital fast?
- A temporary intentional break from digital technologies – smartphones, social media, streaming, news, and constant connectivity.
Why?
- To step away from distractions for the sake of focusing on God as we dedicate this new year to Him.
- The goal is not to “not use technology” but instead, to create space to be with God.
- Treat the following below as guidelines, not rules:
Guidelines for the Digital Fast:
- How to use your phone during the fast:
- Think about your phone in terms of “distraction” vs. “utility.” Ask yourself, “Is this supposed to distract me or is this something useful?”
- Examples of distraction: email, social media, news apps, games, a web browser, video, and shopping apps.
- Examples of utility: phone, text, calendar, airline apps, building/garage access, camera, weather.
- Eliminate screens for personal use and enjoyment.
- Examples: TV & gaming devices
- Limit digital technology to work apps during work hours on your work devices. Commit (as best you can) to no work outside of work hours.
- Use the times you’d typically reach for your phone as a prompt to pray and thank God and encourage others, listen to worship music, read Scripture, sit quietly with the Lord, go on a walk, or anything else that simply helps you connect with the Lord. You may find it helpful to ask the Lord questions & prayers like these when you’d typically reach for your phone:
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- What are you inviting me to pay attention to today?
- What are you calling me towards this year?
- Who can I encourage through a text/call/letter during the fast?
Here’s two apps that may be helpful for you to make your phone less appealing: Blank Spaces App & Dumb Phone App.
